The open concept, in which the kitchen, dining room and living room are combined into one large space, has been considered the gold standard of modern living for years. It was considered modern, practical and sociable. However, recently, architecture and interior design have increasingly talked about the return of separate spaces.
This is not about completely rejecting the open plan, but about change of priorities – privacy, functionality and quality of living in the space are once again coming into focus.
Why is there a trend change?
Lifestyle changes in recent years have significantly affected how we experience home. A space that was once primarily used for rest and socializing now has multiple functions: work, study, cooking, relaxation – often simultaneously.
In such conditions, the completely open concept began to show its limitations:
- noise spreads without obstacles
- kitchen smells remain throughout the space
- there is a lack of clear boundaries between work, leisure and family life
Therefore, there is a need for clearer spatial division, even in smaller apartments.
What does the “new” approach to decorating look like?
Modern space separation does not mean a return to heavy walls and dark rooms. On the contrary, it is about flexible solutions:
- sliding or glass doors
- semi-open partitions
- visually separate spaces with different materials or ceiling heights
- kitchens that can be "closed" if necessary
The goal is not isolation, but space control.
Advantages of separate spaces
1. Less noise and visual chaos
The kitchen is often the most active part of the home. Separating it allows for a more peaceful stay in the living room, especially in the evening hours.
2. Better organization and focus
Separate spaces help create a clearer mental division – you know where you work, eat, and rest. This is especially important in homes where people work from home.
3. Aesthetic longevity
Open concepts often look impressive at first, but over time require constant tidiness. Separate rooms make everyday life easier to handle.
4. More privacy
Not all family members need to share the same space. Separate rooms allow for parallel activities without disturbing each other.
Disadvantages to consider
1. Less natural light
Open concepts often allow for better light flow. Separation may require more careful lighting planning.
2. Feeling cramped in smaller apartments
In very small spaces, too many partitions can create a feeling of closure if light and transparent elements are not used.
3. Less spontaneous socializing
Open spaces naturally encourage communication. Separation can reduce this sense of togetherness if isolation is overdone.
Is the open concept really "out"?
Not entirely. What is out of focus is uniform, completely open plan without flexibilityInstead, there is a trend towards adaptable spaces that can be opened and closed depending on needs.
In other words, the goal is no longer to have everything connected all the time, but to there is a choice.
The new trend in interior design does not advocate a return to the past, but a smarter attitude towards the space we live in. Separating the kitchen, dining room and living room brings more peace, functionality and long-term comfort, but it requires careful planning.
As with most design decisions, the key is not to follow trends at all costs, but to adapt the space to the real habits of those who live in it.
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